Tobacco Free
Summit Healthcare has implemented a tobacco-free policy at all of our facilities.
We have eliminated tobacco use on our properties because it is a priority of Summit Healthcare to help our employees, our patients and our visitors to optimize their health and wellbeing, regardless of where they sit on the healthcare continuum. We chose to endorse and inspire a culture of wellbeing that focuses on improving the quality, vitality and resiliency of our community.
The new policy bans the use of tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, pipes and smokeless tobacco, within all properties owned, leased or occupied by Summit Healthcare. This includes parking lots, hospital vehicles and employees’ personal vehicles parked on the premises, as well as surrounding streets and sidewalks. Employees are prohibited from using tobacco products during working hours.
While we know this may not be easy, it is central to our mission to provide a high performance environment and supportive culture that focuses on living each day with energy, vitality and enthusiasm.
FAQ
As an institution dedicated to improving the health of our patients and community, we must “walk the talk” and show our commitment and leadership in tangible ways.
Tobacco-free means all tobacco products are prohibited in Summit Healthcare Regional Medical Center and on its properties. This includes cigars, cigarette, pipe smoking, smokeless (chewing or snuff) tobacco and all other tobacco products.
There is no legal right to smoke. With all of the evidence demonstrating the hazards of smoking and of second hand smoke, this initiative is consistent with our goals of supporting good health and wellness.
If your car is parked in a Summit Healthcare owned or leased parking lot, you cannot smoke or use tobacco because the lot is part of our tobacco-free zone.
Upon admission, patients will be encouraged to tell staff members if they would like help with tobacco alternatives to get them through their hospitalization without tobacco use. They will be offered resources to assist them.
Employees, spouses and all personnel will be directed to our Wellness Team for a list of resources designed to help them to succeed. These resources include; webinars, one-on-one counseling, prescription assistance, support groups, telephonic coaching and more.
Patients will not be granted permission to leave for this purpose. Instead, they should make known their desire for assistance with not smoking.
Conclusion
We have learned that designated areas do not protect non-smokers from the effects of secondhand smoke. Nor does it inspire our community to work and live a safe, healthy and fulfilling lifestyle.
